The Association de la Jeunesse pour la Promotion des Droits de l’Homme et le Développement – JIJUKIRWA (AJPRODHO–JIJUKIRWA) is a youth-led, non-governmental, and non-profit organization headquartered in Kigali, Rwanda. Established in 1997 by university students in the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, AJPRODHO emerged to promote peace, justice, and reconciliation by empowering youth to become active agents in rebuilding their nation. Its creation was driven by the recognition that sustainable development, human rights, and social justice can only be achieved when young people are meaningfully engaged in governance and development processes.
Over the years, AJPRODHO–JIJUKIRWA has evolved from a small student initiative into a nationally recognized civil society organization advancing human rights protection, participatory governance, socio-economic transformation, and environmental sustainability. The organization’s work aligns with Rwanda’s Vision 2050 and international frameworks, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
COMING TOGETHER
Towards the end of 1995 and early 1996, the conversation to establish AEDHO started. Convened by Frank Mukamana Tanzi, he started selling the idea of establishing an organization to contribute towards rebuilding a new Rwanda, after the Genocide Against Tutsi in 1994.
THE START OF AEDHO
Around March 1996, AEDHO was launched. It was part of the AEGUNR. The organization attracted a large number of students. The organization’s activities were also funded by DANIDA, and this association was fiscally hosted by UNR.
THE BIRTH OF AJPRODHO
AEDHO was transformed into AJPRODHO. This was mainly triggered by 3 main reasons, which are: the limited membership composed mainly by students, the need for a more student-led national organization, and the need to add a development component to the mandate of the Organisation.
1997–2000: INTERNAL CAPACITY BUILDING
This was about engaging in comprehensive training programs to enhance skills and knowledge relevant to the organization’s goals. Additionally, they were developing robust internal processes and systems to ensure efficient operations and facilitate sustainable growth.
2000–2007: PRE-TAKE-OFF STAGE
This included the expansion of geographical coverage, the appointment of a permanent secretary, and the establishment of policies, systems, and donor mobilization. In 2001, they expanded to Kigali. In 2003, to Umutara, and in 2005, moved the office to Kigali. Since then, AJPRODHO has expanded its coverage in several Districts including in the Western, Southern, Eastern, and Northern Provinces as well as the City of Kigali covering over 17 Districts countrywide.
2007 - 2012: PRE-TAKE-OFF STAGE
There occurred an upraise in donor and resource mobilization strategy. and consolidation of systems
2012 - until now
AJPRODHO-Jijukirwa focuses on empowering youth to assert and defend their human rights, while simultaneously advocating for inclusive socio-economic development. Its overarching goal is a peaceful and just society where youth are active participants in promoting social justice and ensuring decent living conditions for all citizens.